Travellers 'ripped off' by cost of Wi-Fi access, says study

Holidaymakers and business travellers are paying too much for internet access when abroad, and are left baffled by misleading and confusing pricing policies, a study suggests.

Wi-Fi charges in many hotels and airport lounges are 'confusing' and a 'rip off', according to Expedia.co.ukPhoto: PA

By Claudine Beaumont

11:34AM GMT 29 Jan 2009

Research found that hotels with lower star ratings were more likely to offer free Wi-Fi internet access than international five-star hotels, where web access rates in some cases cost as much as £19 per hour.

Online travel agent Expedia.co.uk also found that confusing pricing models – with some places charging for Wi-Fi access by the hour and others by the day – made it difficult to compare internet services. The study concluded that Europe was the most expensive place for Wi-Fi access. Venice topped the list, with hotels and cafes in the city charging an average of £6.80 per hour of internet use.

"In the 21st century, getting online while you travel should be simple and cost effective – instead it seems it is confusing and overpriced," said Alison Couper, communications director for Expedia.co.uk "If travellers know that they are going to need to access the internet while abroad, we are advising them to do their research before they go to ensure they know the cost of web access upfront."

Expedia, which surveyed 1,000 British travellers for its study, recommends calling ahead to the hotel to find out what they charge for internet access, and even to trying to strike a deal with the hotel to get reduced-rate Wi-Fi if travellers know they are going to need regular internet access for the duration of their stay.